Top tips for watering in hot weather

1. Water first thing in the morning, or in the last of the day’s light. The temperature is cooler, the atmosphere is more pleasant and it will be a far more enjoyable experience – but that’s not the only benefit. The main reason for taking this approach is that water will evaporate less quickly – meaning more of it will get to your plants’ roots, where its needed.
2.  Use a watering can. Watering cans are great. They allow you to water your garden or pots in an extremely targeted way. In periods of extreme heat, watering is all about focus. Identifying the plants that need water the most (look for wilting leaves or floppy stems) and giving them a good drink. A watering can also helps to minimise wasting water unnecessarily.
3. Water the base of the plant. Whether plants in the ground or in pots, push the spout of your watering can through the foliage to water the base of the plant – this will minimise water wastage from splashin onto leaves, and really gets to the heart of the matter. If you’re watering without a watering can rose (the sprinkler on the end) and just going for an unbridled spout approach it also helps minimise more delicate foliage getting knocked about.
4. You don’t need to water everything. If you’re short on time, look for the plants that need the help the most, as mentioned above. Plants are sturdier than we often think. If you have the time, then obviously a full water is very valuable and well worth the effort, but if you are short on time and just need to focus on key areas, your plants will be okay. As a general rule in hot weather, it’s probably okay to leave it a day, but don’t leave it more than 2 or 3.
5. Don’t forget your pots. Pots will lose moisture far more quickly than plants in the ground. Give all of your pots a good drink as often as you can. During very warm periods, it really doesn’t hurt to do your pots (especially small ones) every day first thing in the morning.

It’s not rocket science, but is, during the warmer weather we’re experiencing year on year, worth keeping watering front of mind. You’ve got this.